Objectives

The UAEI is a centre for learning and knowledge related to the development and inclusion of children with or at risk of developmental and learning disorders. Based conceptually and methodologically on Toni Linder's Transdisciplinary Play-Based Assessment and Intervention (TPBA/TPBI) (1993, 2008), this unit is a centre for assessing children's development, whose scope of action expands to authentic contexts of participation, namely family and school. Through partnership/association with school groups, the Unit supports the adaptation of contexts and pedagogical strategies with a view to promoting the school and social inclusion of the children assessed. The study and action objectives of this unit include: 

1. The implementation and dissemination of functional and observational approaches to assessing children's development and participation in family and school contexts;

2. The development and adaptation of assessment measures from a socio-ecological perspective, focusing on support needs, social and academic participation and environmental factors;

3. Supporting the implementation of inclusive practices and pedagogies in the school context;

4. The development and implementation of collaborative working methodologies with and between families, schools and community organisations to promote the development, participation and social inclusion of children with support needs;

5. The transfer of knowledge and innovation to member/partner schools, with the development of resources for the practice and professional development of educational teams.

Description of the space

The Unit has two complementary spaces: (i) an assessment room equipped with different play materials organised into four play stations, namely symbolic/dramatic play, constructive play, sensory-motor play, and a literacy and games corner; and (ii) another observation and teamwork room that connects to the assessment room via a one-way mirror. 

Photos of the space

Description of the main equipment

The Unit has

- film camera

- image transmission system

- television and VHS player

- play materials (symbolic, dramatic, sensory, motor)

- meeting table and chairs

- TPBA/TPBI manuals and assessment scripts

Functionality/functioning of the equipment

The equipment for recording, transmitting and filming allows for simultaneous observation, co-operation and validation of the assessment process by the different members of the transdisciplinary team. In addition, the diversity of play materials makes it possible to observe the child's development through their involvement in different types of play: constructive play, socio-dramatic play, sensory-motor play and literacy/table games. The rest of the equipment is used for consultation and transdisciplinary discussion.

Contact person

Manuela Sanches Ferreira (manuelaferreira@ese.ipp.pt)